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NewsJessica Fino
10 Jan 2019 01:26pm

EY introduces paid leave for domestic abuse victims

Big Four firm EY has introduced a week of special paid leave for UK staff experiencing domestic abuse, as part of the launch of a domestic abuse pack of measures

The pack is available for the firm’s 14,500 UK staff, and is supported by a new campaign aimed at encouraging employers to support employees who are affected by domestic abuse.

According to figures released by the Everyone’s Business campaign, only 5% of businesses have a domestic abuse policy in place, despite one in four women and one in six men experiencing domestic abuse at some point in their lives. Moreover, three in four of those victims will be targeted while at work.

EY said that, within the pack of measures, it has introduced a week of paid leave for those experiencing domestic abuse, as well as access to an independent domestic violence adviser and a counselling service for employees.

It has also introduced accredited training for key people within the business to help identify and support people who may need help.

Justine Campbell, EY’s managing partner for talent, said, “The statistics highlight that there are likely to be a number of people within any organisation who have experienced or are experiencing domestic abuse.

“We know that the workplace can often be considered a safe place for those affected by abuse at home, which is why it is so important for employers to create a supportive environment with access to professional help.

“By launching a domestic abuse guide with tools and resources provided by Everyone’s Business, we hope to pave the way for other employers and to help ensure those affected by domestic abuse get the help they need.”

Everyone’s Business is a cross-partnership programme, with members including Hestia, Employers Initiative on Domestic Abuse, The Corporate Alliance, Surviving Economic Abuse, Bulbshare, TecSOS, Women’s Trust, and Cardiff Women’s Aid.